DATE: Wednesday, April 16, 2026, at 3:18 p.m.
INCIDENT: PC215(A): Carjacking
PC207(A): Kidnapping
PC245(A)(1): Assault with a deadly weapon
LOCATION: Sheep Creek Road / El Mirage Road, Phelan
SUSPECT: Adrian Diffendaffer, 35-years-old, Resident of Adelanto
VICTIM: #1: 40-year-old, Adult Male
#2: 34-year-old, Adult Female
SUMMARY: On Wednesday, April 16, 2026, at 3:18 p.m., deputies responded to the area of Sheep Creek Road and El Mirage Road in Phelan following a reported carjacking.
Upon arrival, deputies contacted an adult male who reported that he had been driving in the area of Sheep Creek Road and El Mirage Road with his girlfriend and another individual identified as Adrian Diffendaffer. At some point during the drive, an argument began between the victim and Diffendaffer. During the dispute, Diffendaffer allegedly punched the victim and swung a knife at him.
The victim exited the vehicle, and Diffendaffer moved into the driver’s seat and drove away with the victim’s girlfriend still inside. Diffendaffer later stopped the vehicle and exited, at which point the girlfriend took over and drove the vehicle away.
Diffendaffer was later contacted at his residence and taken into custody without incident. He was arrested and transported to the High Desert Detention Center where he was booked for carjacking, kidnapping, and assault with a deadly weapon.
Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact the Victor Valley station at (760) 552-6800 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may contact We-Tip by calling, or text the word “REPORT” to 844-909-3006 or visit https://mobile.catapultems.com/sbcsd/Sites
Refer: Deputy B. Mendoza/Deputy J. Rosas
Station: Victor Valley
Phone No. 760-552-6800
Case No. 072601293
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
